uremia, condition resulting from advanced stages of kidney failure in which urea and other nitrogen-containing wastes are found in the blood. Uremia can be caused by NSAIDs (nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs), especially in older patients treated primarily with ibuprofen for arthritis. Some of the early signs of uremia are lethargy, mental depression, loss of appetite, and edema; later symptoms include diarrhea, anemia, convulsions, coma, and a gray-brown coloration. Treatment of uremia, which is directed at the underlying kidney disease, is usually with dialysis and renal transplantation. Treatments with genetically engineered erythropoietin decrease the complication of anemia. See nephritis; nephrosis.

Excess nitrogenous waste products in the blood and their toxic effects. Kidney impairment (see Bright disease; diabetes mellitus; hypertension; kidney failure; nephritis) or disorders that hinder urine excretion (e.g., prostatic disorders) allow urea and other protein waste products to accumulate. Symptoms usually start with fatigue and loss of concentration. They may include itching and muscle twitches; dry, flaky, yellowish skin; dry mouth, metallic taste, and ammonia breath; and nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and constipation. Advanced stages affect the nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems and can lead to hypertension, seizures, heart failure, and death. If the underlying disorder cannot be treated, dialysis or kidney transplant may be required.

Learn more about uremia with a free trial on Britannica.com.